Microsoft AntiSpyware (Beta): a first look

Kai Schmerer ZDNet Germany

Published: 11 Jan 2005

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Conclusion
The beta version of AntiSpyware underlines Microsoft's recently outlined enterprise strategy concerning spyware and spam. Although there have been few objective investigations into the productivity impact of these two 'hostages of the Internet', market researcher IDC estimates that spam email alone costs larger enterprises several million dollars a year.

Spyware also affects enterprises. A recent investigation by Webroot (maker of Spy Sweeper) found that, on average, 20 spyware programs were installed on Internet-connected business PCs in the USA. Besides adware, trojans and system monitoring programs were found on the computers. Anti-virus software and firewalls do not offer effective protection against these programs.

Microsoft needs to respond to the growth of spam and spyware because these programs eat away at the premise that IT brings productivity benefits. The beta version of Microsoft AntiSpyware is a first step in the right direction -- but others, such as server-based solutions, must follow.

Obviously there is a danger that Microsoft will exploit its position in the IT sector to dominate the anti-spyware market. Therefore the competition guardians should keep a close eye on Microsoft's future moves in this area. You can download Microsoft AntiSpyware (Beta) here.

• Introduction



• Download & installation



• Performance



• Conclusion

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